Issue XVII
C.A.M.P. University provides opportunities for special needs young adults to continue developing life and social skills after high school and provides a respite for their families. Cover Art by Angie
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ford Sasser III Chairman
Fred Biel Tatiana Bravo Pace Erbstoesser Rick Guerra Steff Guerra Sonny Hildreth Sarah Jones Bruce Kroeker Jason Leal Brian Lewis Mike Overly Abbie Sasser Ben Smith Celia Thrash STAFF Pam Voss
Executive Director
Tiffany Miller
Director of Education
Amanda L. Sasser
Director of Marketing and Business Development
Lyzeth Vazquez
Educational Coordinator
Jazmin Mejia
Educational Staff
Justin Cavazos Educational Staff
Israel A. Alfaro Educational Staff
Carmen Alfaro
Custodial Manager
Interns are comprised of UTRGV Rehabilitative Service students, STC Occupational Therapy Assistant students, parents, and members of the community.
CONTACT (956) 800-5292 (Office) www.CAMPUniversity.org Location 4200 N. Main, McAllen
For up to date information:
Featured CAMPer – Carolyn
C
arolyn has been attending C.A.M.P. University since 2011. She loves participating in the activities and is especially good at arts and crafts. Her favorite activity was a stress bottle that is filled with things like beads and glitter. Her newest favorite activity is taking care of the CAMP garden. She enjoys turning the soil and planting new plants in it. She also loves parties and interacting with volunteers and staff. When not at CAMP, she likes making beaded jewelry and being creative. She loves showing off her new creations when she comes to CAMP.
Carolyn also volunteers at her church, First United Methodist, when they do Inside Out She even helps cook for the homeless in our area. Even at CAMP she is quick to help, no matter the task. We are so happy that she’s a part of our CAMP family.
Connect with Us
W
e love sharing what is going on at CAMP in our Newsletters but there are other ways you can stay connected. We want you, as a donor, to see how your gift is being used and the impact it makes. We want to share with you, as a supporter, what’s new at CAMP so that you can help advocate for and share our mission with others. In general we want to be transparent about what we do, why we do it, how we do it, and what is in store for the future. Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram to see daily updates on what we’re working on.
Our Official Facebook Page:
CAMP University
Our Facebook Group:
Mailing Address P.O. Box 2294, McAllen, TX 78502
C.A.M.P. University McAllen
If you have a comment about any of the articles in this issue, we invite you to write the editor at marketing@campuniversity.org
@campuniversity
2
She is also a huge help to her mother and aunt. One of the ways she helps at home is doing the laundry. She knows how to sort clothes and add detergent. She is currently working on perfecting the amount of time laundry is washed and dried. We love that she is always setting goals for herself.
If you love Pinterest we hope you’ll take a look at our page. It’s full of activities that we do here at CAMP and that you can do at home with your own kids. We also pin ideas as we plan events. You can get a sneak peek this way. We are also constantly updating our website. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering you can see what our upcoming activities are by clicking on calendar. You can also get a glimpse into our organization by checking out our blog posts that are updated every Friday. When there’s a big event coming up like #GivingTuesday or A Night at the Races, we’ll add new pages so you know what’s going on and how you can get involved.
We want to connect with you! Let us know what you think.
Or Our Official Instagram:
www.campuniversity.org
News & Events Welcome to the Family!
J
azmin Mejia became an educational staff member here at C.A.M.P. University in October of 2018. She first became involved with CAMP during her second internship while completing her degree at UTRGV. “I thought it was just a great program, and I did not know there was anything like it,” she said. “C.A.M.P. to me is a place for students to feel welcomed, loved and a place for these students to feel included and have a sense of purpose.”
J
ustin Cavazos is a UTRGV graduate who first got involved with CAMP during his internship.
“Being a part of CAMP over the past year, has been a life changing experience,” said Justin. “It is a joy to see the campers grow and continue to be awesome human beings. Seeing how excited they get when they learn something new from an activity or simply tossing a basketball through the hoop brightens all of our days.”
I
srael A. Alfaro, or “Izzy” as we call him, first heard about C.A.M.P. University when his Rehab club at UTRGV hosted a 5k Run which benefited our CAMPers. When it was time to pick an internship location he decided on CAMP so that he could get to know the CAMPers. “What impressed me,” said Izzy, “was that the staff truly cares about their CAMPers and helps them learn and thrive to be the best that they can be.” During our July in-service trip we were able to take two interns with us. One of which was Izzy. He showed such a dedication to our CAMPers
C
Jazmin brings with her a passion for our work, an energetic can-do attitude, and great compassion for those who may be struggling. It’s a joy to be around her and we are so glad to have her on the team as a full-time employee. “I like working at C.A.M.P. because it means I get to be part of the reason for our students’ happiness.”
Justin was a featured volunteer this time last year. We are so pleased that he has joined our team. The CAMPers adore him and love that he’s always ready to play a game with them or help them with a project. He is an enthusiastic and dedicated worker and we are blessed to have him as a new full-time employee. “I look forward to coming to work every day and helping our campers have the best day possible.”
and our mission and during the trip we saw a fire in him. Our team is passionate about being innovative and growing our programs as well as holding each other to high standards. When a position became available Izzy seemed like the perfect fit and indeed he has been. He joined our team part-time in August. “Now that I became a staff member I feel blessed because I have the opportunity to continue seeing the CAMPers grow in such positive ways.” Read more about our in-service Trip on page 6
armen Alfaro joined our team at the beginning of the year and has been doing a wonderful job as our custodial staff member. She loves all of our CAMPers and they love her as well. She always makes time to listen to their stories and offers help as needed.
before accepting this position she was always willing to help when we hosted events like our annual Thanksgiving here at CAMP.
She insures that our CAMPers have a safe and clean environment to work, learn, and play. Even
She is a blessing to all of us.
We are so grateful for her kindness and dedication to our mission and our CAMPers.
3
News & Events #GivingTuesday 12/3/19
C
.A.M.P. University has taken part in the global movement, #GivingTuesday, for three years now. Each year we pick a project that will help our special needs adults. This year we are raising funds and spreading awareness through a series of events starting November 1st and ending on #GivingTuesday, December 3rd. Our chosen project this year is an elevator that will allow all students to have access to their classrooms. With your help these dreams can become a reality. Our CAMPers will also be working on several service projects
Greek Mixer at UTRGV The C.A.M.P. University’s Fraternity, Gamma Upsilon Psi, and Sorority, Gamma Alpha Lambda, were invited to participate in a Greek Mixer this past February. The theme was “Minute to Win It Games.” From the moment our CAMPers walked into the room the UTRGV Greeks made them feel welcome and special.
during this time including helping RGV Food Bank and Ronald McDonald House. We are committed to helping the community that helps us.
For more information on GivingtTesday or to learn how you can help, visit: www.CAMPUniversity.org
ΓΥΨ ΓΑΛ GUY's
GAL's
All over the room were stations for games such as moving a cookie from your forehead to your mouth using only your facial muscles in one minute, moving the most grains of rice with tweezers in one minute, stacking cups, knocking down cup towers, wrapping friends like mummies, and more. A great time was had by all. During a pizza break CAMPers chatted with their fellow Greeks and learned what Greek life was all about. It was such an inspiring night full of joy. Thanks to everyone who made our CAMPers feel so special and included.
4
www.campuniversity.org
News & Events First United Methodist Church – Inside Out
O
nce again, we have been blessed by First United Methodist Church who visited us during their yearly Inside Out Ministry. This year they were joined by members of PEO chapters BV and GH as well as Students from STC. Together they built raised garden beds for our CAMPers to use, repurposed some old tires so that the CAMPers would have a pretty entrance, rebuilt some benches that were in bad shape, trimmed our trees, and even touched up the paint on our building doors. We are so grateful for their continued help. See the results on pg 11
VADA Clay Shoot
W
e were thrilled to be selected as the beneficiaries of a fundraiser the Valley Auto Dealers Association (VADA) puts on each year. When we got the call that a clay shoot would be taking place just a few weeks before Night at the Races, we were excited but a tad worried. However, VADA could not have made the experience any better. They were so kind and so considerate of our CAMPers, even setting up a s’more station just for them. We give them all the credit for such a fun event. Our staff, volunteers, and board came out that night to mingle and judge the shooting. All who attended were so very kind and curious about what C.A.M.P. University does and how they can help. It was a heartwarming experience.
Order of Alhambra – Computer Lab
O
ne of our long time supporter groups are the gentlemen from Order of Alhambra, Mosara Caravan #260. This year they decided to help our CAMPers by sponsoring one of our classrooms and turning it into a computer lab. The men designed the built-in computer desks and even installed and stained them. They also secured computers, set up the electrical system, and installed a new projector. It has been quite a project but the results are beautiful and the CAMPers have loved learning new skills in this space. We are honored by the generosity of this wonderful group and thankful for their friendship. 5
News & Events Learning New Ways to Help at the RGV Food Bank to help their community and their hard work paid off. By the time we left for lunch we had packaged 180 food sacks to help 180 households. That’s 4,140lbs of food! Some of our CAMPers were also able to tour the facility and vist their community garden.
W
e love helping. So when we were invited to spend some time at the RGV Food Bank in Pharr we put on our work boots…and sneakers. Our CAMPers felt empowered
It was quite inspirational for the CAMPers who have been so dedicated to working in their own garden. We were so happy to help and hope to partner again soon with the RGV Food Bank.
State of the City – Featured Nonprofit
W
e were honored to be chosen as the featured nonprofit at this years State of the City. This years theme was “What makes McAllen Magical?” CAMP University’s Director of Marketing and Business Development, Amanda Sasser, had the answer. Last fall a crew from the City of McAllen had come to CAMP to interview Amanda, who is also one of CAMP’s founders. They wanted to know about her relationship with her sister, Emily, and what made CAMP so special. At the end of the interview Amanda was asked, “What makes McAllen magical?” She began to describe the CAMPers and their
love for making people happy, our donors and supporters who give faithfully of their time and assets in an effort to help others, local businesses who open their doors for field trips or take a chance on hiring a CAMPer, families who bend over backwards to make sure their children get whatever they need to be successful, teachers who love sharing knowledge, churches who open their doors to those in need. “The people make McAllen magical,” said Amanda. CAMPers proudly walked on stage during the State of the City Address as they were cheered on by a joyous audience.
Picture taken from Socialife Magazine You can watch our portion of the State of the City Address on our website under “News” and “Videos”
Staff Training in San Antonio and Austin
T
wice a year CAMP University’s staff gets together to review training and to discuss ways we can improve and grow. Sometimes this training might include attending a conference but this past July we were treated by our board to a two-day training in San Antonio and Austin. We took in-depth behind the scenes tours of Morgan’s Wonderland, Adventurers Academy, and Marbridge. We were even able two take two our interns, one of which was hired just a few weeks later. We learned about planning and designing the property, expanding programs, and the possible futures for our CAMPers. It was inspiring, and we talked about our new hopes, dreams, and plans the entire drive home. We can’t wait to share with you what’s instore for our amazing CAMPers and our beautiful new property. 6
www.campuniversity.org
Featured Artist
Artist: Angie Title: Flamingo at the Beach Media: Fluid Acrylic on Canvas 7
News & Events 9th Annual Gala Recap
W
05•07•2019
hat a year we’ve had so far. There are so many wonderful things happening every day at C.A.M.P. University and we credit so much of that to our faithful family of supporters. Our biggest fundraiser of the year seems to keep getting bigger with more auction items, greater demand for tickets, and more generous hearts. We simply could not do what we do without your support. Thank you to all who attended and all who gave towards our 9th annual gala. You can see more pictures of the event on our website under “News” and “Event Pictures” Save the date for next year, when we celebrate on Cinco de Mayo. Pardon our pun but “Taco‘bout a fun Derby Party!” You won’t want to miss our 10th Annual Gala when A Night at the Races becomes “Derby de Mayo” on Tuesday May 5, 2020.
Thank you to all of this year’s sponsors! Atlas Hall & Rodriguez, LLP Rio Bank Boggus Ford G.W. Mitchell Construction HEB KRGV Order of Alhambra, Mosara Caravan #260 DHR Health Edwards Abstract & Title, LLC Ford & Abbie Sasser Keller Real Estate Lee’s Pharmacy Loring Cook Foundation McCreery Aviation Socialife Magazine
8
Vantage Bank Bob & Sheri Morehead Campbell A. Patton, LTD, Real Estate Investments City of McAllen Commissioner Eddie Cantu BBVA Edinburg Livestock El Pato Freels Orthodontics Frost Hamlin Pools Higginbotham Insurance HIWAY Neon Signs Jones, Galligan, Key & Lozano, LLP Lone Star National Bank
Looney Montgomery Foundation McAllen Refrigeration New Life, Dr. Daniel Lee Payne Auto Group RGV Glass RVK Architects Sanborn’s Southwest Onion Growers Texas Farm Credit Texas National Bank Texas Regional Bank Tommy & Mati Garcia Trudie Abbott Walsh, McGurk Cordova, Nixon, LLP Wells Fargo
www.campuniversity.org
News & Events UTRGV’s First Autism Friendly Theatre Performance
U
TRGV’s theater department put on their very first sensory friendly performance this summer during their run of Frog and Toad. What does that mean? This children friendly show had some modifications that made it accessible to individuals with autism and sensory issues. Strobe effects that might be used to simulate lightning were cut as well as loud noises that might startle or be overwhelming. Lighting changes took just a little longer and were not as bright as they might be otherwise. During the dance numbers actors opted for soft shoe instead of tapdancing. Even the ushers were trained how to handle meltdowns, seizures, and other possible instances. Earplugs and blankets were also made available. CAMP Staff were honored and happy to help when asked to provide ideas for this performance. Our CAMPers loved the show and hope to attend another soon.
Road Trip – Sea Turtle Inc. at South Padre Island
I
t seems like every year, as soon as we start getting warmer weather, we start getting requests from the CAMPers for trips to South Padre Island. This year we took a trip to the newly remodeled Sea Turtle Inc where we were given some time to look at the large turtle tanks before heading to the amphitheater to learn all about the sea turtles that live in the Gulf of Mexico. The CAMPers loved their time there and the special attention the staff at Sea Turtle Inc gave them. Before departing we made a quick stop for lunch where we were treated to icecream for dessert.
9
Why We Do What We Do From the Board of Directors
W
hen I first joined Rio Bank 11 years ago I was nervous because I did not know anyone, but also excited about my new career. As I sat down at my desk I noticed a beautiful young girl sitting at the reception area wearing a pink t-shirt. She smiled at me as if I was her next appointment and said, “Hi. Welcome to Rio Bank.” This was my first impression of Emily Sasser, a vibrant young adult, full of life and joy.
Seeing my interest and concern, Mr. Sasser invited me to be part of the dream they had for C.A.M.P. University and the wonderful people who would benefit from it. Before he even asked me to join the advisory board, I was already saying, “YES!” It was a funny moment, but I was very excited that my boss and mentor trusted me with his vision not only for the bank but also for C.A.M.P. University.
Just hugging her every morning gave me the energy I needed for the day but I wondered why she was at the bank every day like all of us from 8-5 or even longer hours. One day, I asked Emily’s father, Ford Sasser, if there was somewhere more fun where Emily could be maybe surrounded by kids her age instead of spending her day with me and Sylvia our receptionist. Where do young adults with special needs go after high school I wondered? He replied, “Tati, Emily has two options here in the Valley; an adult day care center or home.” I remember thinking, “what is wrong with an adult day care center?” So, I decided to find out. Unfortunately, every place that I went left me in tears picturing her in an environment where she clearly did not belong.
I have witnessed so much growth through the years. We’ve had great board members and amazing staff all working together to serve this wonderful purpose. CAMP has helped so many families from all over the Valley and I could not be happier with what the organization has accomplished.
I went back to Mr. Sasser frustrated and said, “there has to be a better place where they can develop and grow and have fun.” He started telling me about a new nonprofit his family had started a couple of years earlier. It was still in its initial stages, only having occasional gatherings with other students that Emily had gone to school with. I could not have been more onboard.
10
We can all make a difference in the lives of these special people. We can provide the opportunity for them to live their lives with plenitude and become independent and self-sufficient. To continue on and to further our mission CAMP needs our help and support. Our CAMPers and families need you. Let us all join the C.A.M.P. University boat and row together to help more and more kids. Sincerely,
Tatiana Bravo C.A.M.P. University Board Member
www.campuniversity.org
Highlights from CAMP
11
We apologize for publishing this list late. Unfortunately, we were not able to meet our deadline for the Spring Newsletter due to planning for Night at the Races. We do, however, want to honor all those who gave last year. Thank you for your understanding and support!
Premier Platinum ($10,000.00 and Up)
Consulado de Mexico Hidalgo County Precinct CDBG Rio Bank Wyatt Foundation HEB
Platinum
($5,000.00 to $9,999.00) Mr. & Mrs. Bob Boggus DLS Industrial Ltd. McAllen CDBG Order of the Alhambra, Mosara Caravan #260 Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Patton
Gold
($2,500.00 to $4,999.00)
Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP BBVA Mr. & Mrs. Blake Brandt Mr. Eduardo Cantu Mr. & Mrs. Jim Collins Edwards Abstract Commissioner Joe Flores Frank N. Boggus Investments LTD Dr. & Mrs. Chris Freels Mr. Carlos Garza Keller Real Estate Investments Loring Cook Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Bob McCreery Mr. & Mrs. Ford Sasser III South Texas College Business Club Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Vaughan
Silver
($1,000.00 to $2,499.00)
Mrs. Trudie Abbott Alma Alcocer Mr. & Mrs. Fred Biel Mr. & Mrs. Raul Cano City of McAllen Mr. & Mrs. Vannie Collins Ms. Linda Currie Mr. & Mrs. David Deanda Jr. Doctors Hospital at
12
Renaissance, LTD Mr. & Mrs. Larry Fallek Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Forthuber Mr. & Mrs. John Franz Freels Orthodontics Mr. & Mrs. Gary Frisby Frost G Athanasi Orfanos M.D. P.A. Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Garcia Sandra Gonzalez Mr. & Mrs. Jim Goudge Hamlin Pools Mr. & Mrs. Will Hausser Higginbotham Insurance Jones, Galligan, Key & Lozano, L.L.P. Mr. & Mrs. John Kreidler Dr. & Mrs. Dan Lee Mrs. Augusta Matthews Mr. & Mrs. James McAllen McAllen Refrigeration / Edinburg Livestock Mission Heroes Inc. Murchison Management Corp. Navy Army Community Credit Union Dr. & Mrs. Noel Oliveira Mr. & Mrs. Mike Overly Mrs. Joyce Payne Dr. & Mrs. James Person Mr. J.R. Purcell Mrs. Kandy Reed Mr. & Mrs. Forrest Runnels Mr. & Mrs. Neal Runnels Mr. & Mrs. Dick Ruppert Sanborn’s Insurance Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Sasser Mr. & Mrs. Fred Schuster Seven Cities Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Tyler Stansberry Mr. & Mrs. Tyler Stone Texas Farm Credit Val Verde Vegetable Co Inc Mr. & Mrs. Terry VanBurkleo Vantage Bank Wells Fargo Bank
Bronze ($500.00 to $999.00) Baker Benefits Administrators, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Andy Browder Mr. & Mrs. Bill Dean Mr. & Mrs. David DeBerry Mr. & Mrs. Larry Delgado Mr. & Mrs. Rocco Fasano Aurelio Garcia
Mr. & Mrs. Ruben Garza Mr. & Mrs. Stan Gorsh Mrs. Carolyn Grill Mr. Hector Guerra Mr. & Mrs. Albert Hausser Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hausser Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Brandon Henderson Mr. Claude “Sonny” Hildreth Mr. & Mrs. Gary Hollowell Inter National Bank Mr. Foss Jones Mr. & Mrs. Chris King Mr. & Mrs. John Kittleman Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Kroeker Landco Mr. & Mrs. Ernst Leiss, III Mr. & Mrs. Rusty Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Phil MacLaird McAllen Orthodontic Group Mr. & Mrs. David McDaniel Dr. James Miller, Jr. DDS Mr. & Mrs. Robert Morehead Keith Patridge Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Ramos Mr. Mike Rhodes Mr. & Mrs. Paul Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Runnels Mr. Bill Ruppert Mr. & Mrs. Stuart Sasser Shepard Walton King Ins Grp. Mr. & Mrs. Steve Shimotsu Trinity Baptist Church Dr. & Mrs. Roger Vitko Walsh, McGurk, Cordova & Nixon, PLLC Mr. & Mrs. Chris Wicker Mr. & Mrs. Matt Wolthoff Dr. & Mrs. Turner Wright
Supporter
($499.00 and Under) Mr. Cole Abbott Sylvia Avila Mrs. Mary Nell Baldridge Mr. Alan Baronoskie Norma Barreda Dr. & Mrs. Cayetano Barrera Mr. & Mrs. Miguel Basurto Mr. Mike Beadle Bert Wisenant Insurance Jeanne Blackburn Mr. & Mrs. Ruben Bosquez Mrs. Sally Bowers BR Consulting Mr. & Mrs. Joe Brown Mr. John Bury Kathleen Campbell Jessica Cantu Mr. Luis Cardenas Mrs. Linda Cattaruzza Mr. & Mrs. Ricardo Chapa Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Chapa Mrs. Shirley Chester Chick-fil-A Mrs. Patty Abbott Compton Jane Cross
Mr. Joshua Cummings Ms. Judy Davidson Maria De los Angeles Garcia Miss Leslie De los Santos Mrs. Marilyn De Luna Dr. Luis Delgado Jr. Melissa Diaz Mr. & Mrs. David Dougherty Paul Dueck Dr. & Mrs. Lester Dyke Mr. & Mrs. Steven Egan Mr. & Mrs. Frank Escalante Castillo Mr. & Mrs. Larry Esparza Mr. & Mrs. Jack Ewing Mr. & Mrs. Mark Freeland Mr. & Mrs. Jose Garcia Elva Garza Mr. & Mrs. Gabriel Garza Ms. JoAnn Gibson Mr. & Mrs. David Girault Deborah Goetz Dr. & Mrs. Greg Goldsmith Mr. & Mrs. Juan Gomez Rina Gonzalez Mr. Steven Griffith Mr. & Mrs. Albert Guajardo Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Guerra Mr. & Mrs. Che Guerra Mr. Rick Guerra Torry Guerra Ms. Cecilia Guillot Mr. & Mrs. Brian Hagemann Mr. & Mrs. Michael Harris Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Hausser Mr. John Heasley Andrew Heffner Senator Juan Hinojosa Mr. & Mrs. Mauricio Hinojosa Mr. & Mrs. Chris Hoffman James Houghtaling Mr. & Mrs. Brian Humphreys Jr Herbert Jeffries Mr. & Mrs. Jer Johnson Alma Johnson Dr. & Mrs. Robert N. Jones Mr. & Mrs. Nathan Jones Mr. & Mrs. Whitney Jones Allison Jones Mr. Lance Kerby Mrs. Nedra Kinerk Mr. & Mrs. Christopher King Kiowa Tactical, LLC Mr. Jack Kleinecke Mr. & Mrs. Paul Koch Langley & Banack, Inc Law Office of Richard S. Talbert Mr. & Mrs. Harry Leggett Mr. & Mrs. Craig Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Dwain Lewis Lewis Construction Yvonne Loflin Mr. & Mrs. Cullen Looney Suzanne Maness Mr. & Mrs. Robert McAllen Mr. Tom Mecredy Melden & Hunt, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Melendez Sharon Waite and Joe Metz Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Meyer Ms. Cynthia Mills
www.campuniversity.org
We’re so Grateful to our 2018 Contributors! Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Mohamed Mr. & Mrs. Willard Moon Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Moore Mr. & Mrs. Paul Moxley Jessica Nava Mary Dale Newsome Mr. & Mrs. Javier Olivarez Mr. Charles Olson Ms. Louann Osment Paul Park Mr. & Mrs. Rick Perez Mr. & Mrs. Mike Phillips Dr. & Mrs. Keith Picou Mr. Jack Pollock Propst Financial Services, Inc. Omar Quintanilla Mr. Michael Rabinowitz Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Ramirez Mr. & Mrs. Cliff Ranson Alyssa Reyes Sarah Robledo Evelyn Robledo Mr. & Mrs. Robert Rodriguez Mr. Alejandro Rosales Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Ruppert Mr. Rick Saldana Mr. & Mrs. Sam Saldivar Marilu Salinas Mr. Emilio Santos Brianne Santos Miss Amanda Sasser Mrs. Claudia Schklair Mr. & Mrs. Taylor Schuster Dr. & Mrs. Gary Schwarz Ms. Dorothy Scott German Segura Mr. Ernest Sepulveda Mr. & Mrs. Tim Sers Donna Shawhan Shipley Donuts Mr. Hector Silva Mr. & Mrs. John Skaggs Mr. & Mrs. Ben Smith Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Soberon Ms. Brenda Soliz Spoor Engineering Consultants, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Travis Stansberry Mr. & Mrs. Joshua Stansberry Mr. & Mrs. John Stansberry Travis Stephens Mr. & Mrs. Robbie Sterett Mr. & Mrs. Blair Stouffer Mr. & Mrs. Boone Stutts Dr. Pablo Tagle III Mr. & Mrs. Lincoln Talbert Ms. Margot Thompson Mr. & Mrs. John Tippit Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Toppin Julissa Trevino Eduardo Vaca Mr. & Mrs. David Valadez Valley Petrochemicals, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Evan Vanderpool Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Vaughan Mr. & Mrs. Danny Vela Mr. & Mrs. Chris Voss Mr. & Mrs. Mark Walker Walker & Twenhafel, LLP Mr. & Mrs. Jack Wallace Dr. & Mrs. Willard Washburne
Becky Weaver Mr. & Mrs. Ken Westerman Mr. & Mrs. Michael Whitacre Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Wilkins Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Williams Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Williams Annah Woodland Mr. & Mrs. Mark Wright Mrs. Peggy Yancy Mr. & Mrs. Ed Zinsmeister
In Tribute In Memory Of Joyce Hicks Payne Given By Laura Boston Mr. & Mrs. Brian Hagemann Edwina Nelson Ms. Dorothy Scott Dr. & Mrs. Willard Washburne In Memory of Robert L. Kinerk Given by Dr. Nedra Kinerk In Memory of Esther Miller Given by Sharon Waite Given by Joe Metz In Memory of Ladenia Murphy Hooker Given by Shirley Chester Given by Donna Erickson In Honor of Richard Dondlinger Given by Ms. JoAnn Gibson In Honor of Jesse Babcock Given by Mr. & Mrs. Stan Gorsh In Honor of The Sasser Family Given by Mr. & Mrs. Willard Moon In Honor of LeeAnn Pollock Given by Mr. & Mrs. Cliff Ranson In Honor of Emily Sasser Given by Mr. & Mrs. Blair Stouffer In Honor of Trudie Abbott Given by Mr. & Mrs. Chris Voss In Honor of Amanda Sasser Given by Mrs. Peggy Yancy
In-Kind Acclaimed Auto Service Ag Pro Alberico Fine Wine Aqua Tots Swim Schools Armando’s Boot Company Mr. & Mrs. Adrian Arriaga Art by Krystal Gem Artemista Arturos Bar & Grill Bahama Bucks Barn White Barnes & Noble (Expressway 83) Bebe Bou Bike Masters McAllen BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse Bob Stark’s Beef Shop (McAllen) Bob Starks Beef Shop (Mission) Bob’s Steak & Chop House
Boka @ 400 Bonita Flowers & Gifts Mr. & Mrs. John Booth Breadsmith Brighton Collectibles Buffalo Wings & Rings Ms. Celeste Cantu Capt. Mark Guillot’s Fishing Adventures Carats Casa Rio Mexican Restaurant Castle Hospitality Chick-fil-A Chico’s Chili’s 1168 Chorizo De San Manuel Guerra’s Brand Chuck Olson Tours and Cruises Cimarron City Cafe Mr. & Mrs. Kirk Clark Coastal Americana Sign Co. Colletti’s Italian Restaurant & Event Venue Costco Wholesale Cowboy Chicken Cowboys & Indians Taxidermy Cracker Barrel D & M Cleaners de Sanchez Day Spa & Salon Deutsch & Deutsch Dirty Al’s Restaurant Dubai Salon & Skin Care Fast Signs Fellowship of Christian Athletes Fiesta Cleaners FUMC McAllen Mr. Ryan Foster Mr. Luis Garza Ms. Donna Gibson Gio and Joey Holand/La Lupita Ranch, LLC Gladys Tamez Millinery Glick Twins Go With Jo! Tours & Travel Peggy Goldfine Golf Headquarters Griffin Grill Harlingen Country Club Pokey Harris H.E.B. Hello Baby Studios Mr. & Mrs. Chris Hoffman Mr. & Mrs. DD Hoffman Lauren Holland Mr. & Mrs. Tim Honeycutt Horizon 7 Properties LLC (operatingTexanGuestRanch) House.wine.& bistro Infusions Eats & Drinks Johnny Carino’s Italian Restaurant Mr. & Mrs. Jer Johnson Karla’s Kendra Scott King’s Inn Kolder Kookies by Karla Krazyy Cowgirls Mr. & Mrs. John Kreidler Kumori Sushi & Teppanyaki L & F Distributors La Fonda R.M. Le Creme Hair and Nail Salon Leona Longhorn Steak House (North) Longhorn Steak House (South) Los Pasteles Caseros De Gaby Luby’s Lunar Mini Golf
Lyssy & Eckel Inc. Magnum LLC Mrs. Paula Marek Mr. & Mrs. Chris Marshall Martin Farm and Ranch Supply McAllen Country Club McAllen Stained Glass McAllen Yard Greetings Mr. & Mrs. Bob McCreery McCreery Aviation Co, Inc. McDonald’s Men’s Wearhouse Ms. Cynthia Mills Montalvo Jewelers Mr. & Mrs. Trey Murray Muy Grande NJ Jewelers North 10th St. Animal Hospital Nothing Bundt Cakes Oh Kays Dr. & Mrs. Noel Oliveira Optical Illusion Orange Theory Fitness P.F.Chang’s Paesanos Palenque Group Vanaly Palmer Paris House Cakes Parrot Eyes Restaurant, Bar & Watersports Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Patton Petco Dr. & Mrs. Angel Pulido Quips ‘N’ Quotes Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club Raul Martinez Massage Studio Mrs. Kandy Reed Renee’s of Sharyland RGVLTC Rio Bank River Bend Golf Resort Rivera’s Machinery Rudy’s Bar-B-Q Russo’s New York Pizzaria Sally Bowers Enterprises Sam’s Mr. & Mrs. Ford Sasser III Miss Amanda Sasser Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort Sea Ranch Restaurant Shipley Donuts Sisters Trading Company Smart Bamboo Mr. & Mrs. Drew Smith Soldiers Helping Soldiers Solo Empanadas South Texas Beauty Southwest Airlines Sweet & Tasty Sweet Temptations Restaurant Sylvia’s Target (South) Texas de Brazil Texas Tops The Boot Jack The Fairmount Hotel The Gallery at Spicewood The Palms Resort & Cafe The Patio The Quarry Golf Club Tina G. LLC Tommy Hilfiger Uptown Medical Wellness Mr. & Mrs. Terry VanBurkleo Mr. & Mrs. Chris Voss Yummies Bistro
13
We’re so Grateful to our 2019 Contributors! Premier Platinum ($10,000.00 and Up)
Edinburg CDBG FHL Bank Dallas Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Garza HEB Hindalgo County CDBG Rio Bank Wyatt Foundation
Platinum
($5,000.00 to $9,999.00) G.W. Mitchell Construction Mr. & Mrs. Alvaro Gonzalez
Gold
($2,500.00 to $4,999.00)
Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP BBVA Mr. & Mrs. Bob Boggus Mr. John Bury Mary Cable Debra Cordova Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, LTD Edwards Abstract Frank N. Boggus Investments LTD Esteban Garcia Keller Real Estate Investments Lee’s Pharmacy & Medical Equipment McCreery Aviation Co, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Melendez Dr. Omar Palomin Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Patton AnnMarie Reza Mr. & Mrs. Ford Sasser III Valley Auto Dealers Association
Silver
($1,000.00 to $2,499.00)
Alma Alcocer Mr. & Mrs. Fred Biel Mrs. Tatiana Bravo Commissioner Eddie Cantu Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Caporusso City of McAllen Creative Marketing Associates Mr. & Mrs. Bill Dean Mr. & Mrs. David Deanda Jr. Mr. & Mrs. David DeBerry Dr. & Mrs. Chris Freels
14
Frost Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Garcia Hamlin Pools Mr. & Mrs. Brandon Henderson Higginbotham Insurance HiWay Neon Sign Company Jones, Galligan, Key & Lozano, L.L.P. Dr. & Mrs. Ken Landrum Dr. & Mrs. Dan Lee Lone Star National Bank Looney-Montgomery Foundation Loring Cook Foundation McAllen Refrigeration /Edinburg Livestock Augusta Matthews Mr. & Mrs. Robert Morehead Susan Myerscough Order of the Alhambra, Mosara Caravan #260 Mrs. Kandy Reed RGV Glass, Inc Mr. Mike Rhodes Rodriguez Capital Investments, LLC RVK, Inc. Sanborn’s Insurance Santa Cruz Properties Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Sasser Mr. & Mrs. Jack Scoggins Mr. & Mrs. John Skaggs Texas Farm Credit Texas National Bank Texas Regional Bank Trinity Baptist Church Val Verde Vegetable Co Inc Mr. & Mrs. Terry VanBurkleo Vantage Bank Walsh, McGurk, Cordova & Nixon, PLLC Wells Fargo Bank
Bronze ($500.00 to $999.00) Mr. & Mrs. Adrian Arriaga Mr. & Mrs. John Booth Mr. & Mrs. Ruben Bosquez Mr. & Mrs. Blake Brandt Dr. Luis Delgado Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Brian Disque Mr. & Mrs. Larry Fallek Dondlinger Family Trust Freels Orthodontics G Athanasi Orfanos M.D. P.A. Dr. & Mrs. John Gerling Greater State Bank Mr. Claude “Sonny” Hildreth Mr. & Mrs. Chris Hoffman Mr. & Mrs. Whitney Jones
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Koch Kolder / Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Meyer Mr. & Mrs. John Kreidler Mr. & Mrs. Phil MacLaird Mr. & Mrs. David McDaniel New Life Cosmetic Surgery & Wellness Center James Notzon Dr. & Mrs. Noel Oliveira Rafael Rego Mr. & Mrs. Brent Richbook Mr. & Mrs. Herb Scurlock Sandra Studer Shepard Walton King Ins Grp. Mr. & Mrs. Bob Tellez Mr. & Mrs. Danny Vela Dr. & Mrs. Roger Vitko
Supporter
($499.00 and Under) Brownsville Dental Associates Mrs. Mary Nell Baldridge Mr. Alan Baronoskie Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Barrera Dr. & Mrs. Cayetano Barrera Steve Bazan Diana Berger Jeanne Blackburn Bridgenet Communications Mr. Luis Cardenas Mr. & Mrs. George Carpenter Amanda Cavazos Mr. & Mrs. Ricardo Chapa Mrs. Shirley Chester Mrs. Erika Coronado Mr. & Mrs. Josh Cummins Jose De La Rosa Miss Joseline De Los Santos Ms. Maricruz Del Villar Abbott Mr. & Mrs. John Della Maggiora Delta Cappa Gamma Chapter Epsilon Upsilon Melissa Diaz Dr. & Mrs. Lester Dyke Connie Fielder-Norton Mike Flanagan Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Forthuber Mr. & Mrs. John Franz Benito Garcia Jo Anne Garcia Omar Garcia Mr. & Mrs. Jose Garcia Ana Luisa Garza Delia Garza Irma Garza Mr. Troy Gearhart Mr. & Mrs. Jon Gillespie Miss Madison Girault Deborah Goetz Dr. & Mrs. Greg Goldsmith Abraham Gonzalez Ramon Gonzalez Alvaro Gonzalez Mrs. Carolyn Grill Mr. & Mrs. Albert Guajardo Lizette Guajardo Mario Guajardo
Steff Guerra Mr. & Mrs. Mike Guerra Mr. Rick Guerra H H & W, Inc dba Maaco Collision Mr. & Mrs. Taylor Hamlin Dr. & Mrs. David Heflin Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy Henderson Senator Juan Hinojosa Mr. & Mrs. DD Hoffman Melodie Hoyle Mr. & Mrs. Brian Humphreys Jr Hillary Hunt Mrs. James Hunt Amy Johnson Cecilia Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Paul Johnson Dr. & Mrs. Robert N. Jones Mr. & Mrs. Foss Jones Mrs. Nedra Kinerk Kiowa Tactical, LLC Taylor Kittleman Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Kroeker La Leona Ranch Services, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Marco Leal Mr. & Mrs. Harry Leggett Mr. Joe Lehman Dr. & Mrs. Ernst Leiss Mr. & Mrs. Dwain Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Craig Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Brian Lewis Byron Lewis Kathy Lewis Sam Lopez Mr. & Mrs. Leonel Lopez David Lozano Eduardo Madrigal Kate Maguire Mr. Dave Martinez Celeste Martinez Mr. & Mrs. Bob McCreery Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Miesner Mr. & Mrs. Steve Miller Mr. & Mrs. Cramer Miller Mr. & Mrs. Willard Moon Ms. Paulette Moore Mr. & Mrs. Paul Moxley Ali Moya Mr. John Mozingo Sam Munafo Jessica Nava Mr. Adolfo Navarro Network for Good George Noser Arnold Ochoa Mr. & Mrs. Javier Olivarez Mr. Charles Olson Jared Ortega Norma Ortiz Ms. Louann Osment Mr. & Mrs. Mike Overly Mr. Paul Park Mr. Jack Pollock Mr. & Mrs. Isael Posadas Maria Guadalupe Presichi Mr. Kenneth Pruitt Mr. Andrew Ramirez Armando Recio Dr. Shirley Reed Roxann Reza Yarely Rios Evelyn Robledo Mr. & Mrs. Omar Rodriguez Licy Duran Rodriguez
www.campuniversity.org
Contributions from January 1 - Ocotber 31, 2019 Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Rokovich Mr. Alejandro Rosales Robert Rosell Lily Salinas Marilu Salinas Frank Sanchez Lucina Sanchez Dr. & Mrs. Gary Schwarz Mr. & Mrs. William Scruggs Mr. & Mrs. Tim Sers Donna Shawhan Kent Sheppard Mr. & Mrs. Ben Smith Mr. & Mrs. Frank Smith Ms. Brenda Soliz Jose Sosa Jr. Vanessa Soto Spoor Engineering Consultants, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Joshua Stansberry Mr. & Mrs. John Stansberry Dr. & Mrs. Pablo Tagle Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Tavarez Carlos Terraza Mr. & Mrs. Richard Thompson Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Thrash Xavier Trevino Julissa Trevino Alfredo Vallejo Liliana Vasquez Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Vaughan Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Vaughan Mr. & Mrs. Danny Vela Jr. Graciela Villarreal Mr. & Mrs. Chris Voss Mr. & Mrs. Mark Walker Mr. & Mrs. Jack Wallace Miss Melanie Watson Mr. & Mrs. Michael Whitacre Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Wilkins Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Williams
In Tribute In Memory of Charles Graham Given By Rio Bank In Honor of Pam Voss Given By Anna Dean Karen Berns In Honor of Kenia Melo Given By IDEA Public Schools
In-Kind 5X5 Brewing American Dominoes Applebees Aqua Tots Swim Schools Mr. & Mrs. Adrian Arriaga Artemista Barn White Barnes & Noble (Expressway 83) Bebe Bou Bob Stark’s Beef Shop (McAllen) Bob Starks Beef Shop (Mission) Mrs. Sally Bowers Breadsmith Brick Fire Pizza & More Buffalo Wings & Rings C.A.M.P. University Board of Directors Carats Carwash Carwash Casa de Palmas McAllen Hotel
Casa Rio Mexican Restaurant Lorenzo Castaneda Castle Hospitality Cheddar’s Chico’s Chili’s Chuck E. Cheese Chuck Olson Tours and Cruises City Cafe Colletti’s Italian Restaurant & Event Venue Costco Wholesale Cowboy Chicken Mr. & Mrs. Tim Curl D & M Cleaners de Sanchez Day Spa & Salon Desperado Harley Davidson Deutsch & Deutsch Dirty Al’s Restaurant Dos Carolinas Dos Rios Fabrics Dr. Daniel Lee, DO Dubai Salon & Skin Care El Callejon De Los Milagros El Divino Elaine Bready Elevation Medspa Feldmans Fellowship of Christian Athletes Fiesta Cleaners Finishing Touches FUMC McAllen Freddy’s Frozen Custard Game Stop (Exp 83) Game Stop (N. 10th) Game Stop (S. 10th) Mr. Luis Garza Madison Girault Gladys Tamez Millinery Glick Twins Goddess Med Spa Peggy Goldfine Gossip McAllen U.S. Representative, Vicente Gonzalez Greens & Lemons Harlingen Country Club HEB (Trenton) HEB Plus! (Shary) Hello Baby Studios Hilton-Embassy Suites Mr. & Mrs. DD Hoffman Home Depot Jason’s Deli North McAllen Jenny Hollis Photography Mr. & Mrs. Jer Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Whit Jones Juice Bar-McAllen Karla’s Kendra Scott Kool Stuff Mr. & Mrs. John Kreidler Kumori Sushi & Teppanyaki Le Creme Hair Salon Lee’s Pharmacy & Medical Equipment Leona Mr. & Mrs. Rusty Lewis Longhorn Steak House (South) Los Pasteles Caseros De Gaby Lunar Mini Golf Lx Elite Brazilian Jiu Jitsu M & R Jewelers Makast Inc. DBA Gorditas Dona Tota Laura Mangelchots Massage & Wellness of McAllen McAlister’s Deli
McAllen Country Club McAllen EDC Mr. & Mrs. Bob McCreery McDonald’s Men’s Wearhouse Mi Tierra Restaurant Peggy Miller Montalvo Jewelers Mr. & Mrs. Dean Moon Muelle 37 Muy Grande Nails by Edie New York Deli NJ Jewelers North 10th St. Animal Hospital Oh Kays Optical Illusion Orange Turtle Osmar Catering Mr. & Mrs. Mike Overly P.F.Chang’s Pablo Tagle, Jr. DDS, Inc. Paesanos Restaurant Grp 1604 Mr. & Mrs. Harry Page Palenque Group Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine Pappas Restaurants Parrot Eyes Restaurant, Bar & Watersports Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Patton Payne Auto Group Peppers at Uptown Pirates Landing Restaurant ProSports Massage Clinic Ranch House Burgers II Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club Raul Martinez Massage Studio Rebecca (Keka) Kuri Mrs. Kandy Reed RGV Rockola (Karaoke) Rentals RGVLTC Rio Bank Rio Bravo Store Rio Farms Margot Rodriguez Roosevelt’s at 7 Rudy’s Bar-B-Q Saltgrass Steak House San Antonio Zoo Santa Fe Steak House Miss Amanda Sasser Mr. & Mrs. Ford Sasser III Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort Shipley Donuts Sisters Trading Company Small Cakes Solo Empanadas Southwest Airlines Sundara Spa Susie Booth Sweet & Tasty Bakery Sweet Temptations Restaurant Sylvia’s Dr. Pablo Tagle III Target Target Mission Target Nolana Tecomate Industries “La Perla Ranch” Texadelphia Texas Independent Bank Texas Tops The Palms Resort & Cafe The Patio The Quarry Golf Club
Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Thrash TJ Maxx Tom & Jerry’s Beach Club & Grill TopGolf Mr. & Mrs. Antonio Torres Uptown Medical Wellness Viva Life Mr. & Mrs. Chris Voss Wallbangers
A Night at the Races Sponsors: Triple Crown Sponsor Atlas Hall & Rodriguez, LLP Rio Bank
Belmont Stakes Sponsors Boggus Ford G. W. Mitchell Construction HEB KRGV Order of Alhambra, Mosara Caravan #260
Preakness Sponsors BBVA DHR Health Edwards Abstract and Title, LLC Ford & Abbie Sasser Keller Real Estate Lee’s Pharmacy Loring Cook McCreery Aviation Socialife Magazine Vantage Bank
Preakness Sponsors
Bob & Sheri Morehead Campbell A. Patton, LTD, Real Estate Investments City of McAllen Commissioner Eddie Cantu Compass Edinburg Livestock El Pato Freels Orthodontics, Dr. Freels Frost Hamlin Pools Higginbotham Insurance HIWAY Neon Signs Jones, Galligan, Key & Lozano LLP Lone Star National Bank Looney Montgomery Foundation McAllen Refrigeration, Inc. New Life, Dr. Daniel Lee Payne Auto Group RGV Glass RVK Architects Sanborn’s Southwest Onion Growers Texas Farm Credit Texas National Bank Texas Regional Bank Tommy & Mati Garcia Family Trudie Abbott Walsh, McGurk, Cordova, Nixon, PLLC Wells Fargo
15
P.O. Box 2294 McAllen, TX 78502
C.A.M.P. University is a day program that is offered to High School Graduates with intellectual delays. C.A.M.P. stands for Can Achieve Maximum Potential and is based on the belief that special education graduates can and should continue staying active socially, mentally, and physically in order to reach their own maximum potential. Although not an actual University, C.A.M.P. does provide ways for members to challenge themselves and explore interests.
Thank you for your interest in and ongoing support for this truly wonderful organization.
NON-PROFIT US POSTAGE PAID PRESORTED STANDARD McAllen, TX Permit No. 438
December 3rd 2019 Mark your Calendar for the 2019 International Day of Giving! Read inside to find out how C.A.M.P. University is growing and how you can be a part of it. Or visit www.CAMPUniversity.org for more information.